Goldie Irma Free

Goldie Irma-Gene Kimes Free, lovingly known as Mrs. Irma, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 29th, 2026, surrounded by her cherished family, whom she deeply loved.

She is survived by her husband, Eric Free; one son, Shawn (Cindy) Nelson; one daughter, Dawn (Christopher) Odum; and a stepdaughter, Jessica (James) Mellott. She is also survived by five grandchildren: Gabrielle (Taylor) Traugott, Cooper Nelson, Christen (Cody) Bass, Kelsie (Nathan) Rodriguez, and Mary Odum (Andrew Bennett); and four great-grandchildren: Nona and Lula Bass, and Ezra and Emma Rodriguez. Additionally, she is survived by three sisters: Sue Ross, Betty Newcomb, and Debbie Anderson.

She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers: Lee Kimes, Leroy Draby, and Ralph Draby.

Irma was born on August 16, 1943, in Arkansas and moved to Scottville, Michigan, at an early age. After graduating from high school and living around the world as a military wife, she eventually settled in Lake City, where she began working at the Veterans Affairs Hospital until her retirement.

Irma adored her family and was a friend to all. She was highly skilled in the culinary arts and generously shared her talents with others throughout the years. She was often the first to bring food whenever there was a need and was especially known for her chocolate chip cookies. She was a faithful member of Hopeful Baptist Church and the Charity Sunday School Class, and she served in Vacation Bible School for many years.

A visitation to honor Goldie Irma-Gene Kimes Free will be held at Hopeful Baptist Church on _Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 AM A funeral service will take place on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Mark Cunningham officiating. Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery immediately following the service. Arrangements are under the direction of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S US HWY 441, Lake City, FL 32025. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.